The Paradox of Parliament

by Jonathan Malloy

The Paradox of Parliament provides a comprehensive analysis of all aspects of Parliament in order to explain the paradoxical expectations placed on the institution. The book argues that Parliament labours under two different "logics" of its purpose and primary one based on governance and decision-making and one based on representation and voice. This produces a paradox that is common to many legislatures, but Canada and Canadians particularly struggle to recognize and reconcile the competing logics. In The Paradox of Parliament, Jonathan Malloy discusses the major aspects of Parliament through the lens of these two competing logics to explain the ongoing dissatisfaction with Parliament and perennial calls for parliamentary reform. It focuses on overarching analytical themes rather than exhaustive description. It centres people over procedure and theory, with strong emphasis given to dimensions of gender, race, and additional forms of diversity. Arguing for a holistic and realistic understanding of Parliament that recognizes and accepts that Parliament evolves and adapts, The Paradox of Parliament puts forward an important and novel interpretation of the many facets of Parliament in Canada.

304 pages, Hardcover

Published March 17, 2023

About the author

Jonathan Malloy is Professor of Political Science at Carleton University. His teaching and research focus on Canadian and Ontario politics. He also has a strong interest in university career mentorship and administration and served two terms as chair of his department. His most recent book is Work Your Career: Get What You Want From Your Social Sciences or Humanities PhD, co-authored with Loleen Berdahl, the product of twenty years of observing and advising potential and current doctoral students.

His co-edited book The Politics of Ontario is a comprehensive introduction to the politics and government of Canada's largest province. His co-edited book Fighting For Votes is the first and only complete study of an Ontario provincial election.

He has been at Carleton University since 2000 and has also held visiting professorships at Duke University and the Australian National University

Reviews

[Craig Mutter · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Paradox of Parliament is an excellent resource for those looking to learn more about Canada's governmental institutions.

Malloy's book examines the ambiguity at the heart of parliament around what purpose the institution ought to serve, highlighting two competing "logics" - representation (providing a meaningful forum for opinions and perspectives from territorial and non-territorial groups) and governance (the actual business of running a country) - and the way in which these are often in tension.

Overall, the text is written in accessible way, and effectively incorporates individual accounts to provide an in-depth and multi-dimensional view of the problems facing Parliament as well as proposed solutions.